The Lady Rosemary Haiveta Netball Tournament is set to kick off from August 19-22, earlier than the original dates, to allow selected players to prepare for the National Netball Championships in Lae this September, according to a statement. Gulf Province Netball Association (GPNA) President Marsha Sireh shared that organizing the event has been challenging, especially with funding. “Basically, our biggest hurdle was funding. We have requested assistance from numerous organizations and are hopeful to get some assistance,” Sireh said. Thanks to the Gulf Provincial Sports Trust and the Community Development Office, the tournament is going ahead strong. A total of 19 teams, including squads from Iokea, Miaru, Lese, Karama, Mupa, and Central Kerema, have confirmed their participation. There is still hope that a team from West Kerema will join as well. Sireh also thanked the PNG Sports Foundation and PNG Netball Federation for their technical support in making this event possible.